. >> the class of 1991, with six in new jersey, including a diminutive figure. today he serves as the ultimate role model. >> he is so inspirational. he is the winner and has gone to the olympics. at such a young age, the first time. >> he is a great inspiration. he set the bar. he brings expertise and knowledge that he can then share with the others. >> it is a nice reminder that no matter where i get to, there will be someone who is better et t get to. still the best swimmer in the world, in my opinion. >> but there is the changing of the guard. a new gold boom generation emerging. melissa, matt, ryan, allison, they will be the thin ups of 2012 state side. -- pickups of 2012 stateside. great individual rivalries, like phelps. >> head to head is on thursday, with the olympic legend hoping for -- to overcome defeat. and >> amazing the influence they have had around the world. you can get updates on our olympics stories on our website. you can find us on twitter. thanks for watching, tune in for tomorrow. >> makes sense of international news that bbc.com/news. >>